HSA Shop logoHSA Shop

HSA Guide

Are Alternative Health Services Covered by HSA?

Published January 3, 2022

Check eligibility on the gobrowse 7,000+ HSA-eligible products in the free app.

Get the app
Short answer: Alternative health services are HSA-eligible if medically necessary, prescribed by a healthcare provider, and treat a specific illness or condition.

What Are Alternative Health Services?

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are a great way to save for medical expenses while enjoying certain tax benefits. Many people wonder if alternative health services are covered by HSAs. The answer is not so straightforward, but let's delve into the details.

Alternative health services refer to treatments and therapies that are not typically part of conventional medical care. These can include acupuncture, chiropractic care, naturopathy, massage therapy, and more. Whether these services are covered by your HSA depends on a few factors:

IRS Eligibility Criteria and Documentation Requirements

  • The IRS Guidelines: The IRS determines which medical expenses are eligible for HSA funds. Alternative health services that are considered medically necessary and prescribed by a healthcare provider are usually eligible.
  • Qualifying as a Medical Expense: To be considered eligible, the alternative health service must diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat, or prevent a specific illness or condition.
  • Documentation: It's essential to keep detailed records of your alternative health service expenses, including receipts and a prescription or recommendation from your healthcare provider.
  • Reimbursement: You can use your HSA funds to pay for eligible alternative health services, but make sure to save your receipts in case of an audit.
  • Expenses That May Not Be Covered: Some alternative health services, such as general wellness treatments or over-the-counter supplements, may not qualify for HSA reimbursement.

Getting Professional Guidance on HSA Coverage

Ultimately, it's essential to consult with a tax advisor or financial planner to understand what alternative health services are covered by your HSA. By staying informed and following the guidelines, you can make the most of your HSA benefits.

When it comes to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), many individuals are curious whether alternative health services like acupuncture and chiropractic care are eligible. It's crucial to understand the nuances surrounding these regulations.

Free App

Browse 7,000+ HSA-Eligible Products

Search by symptom, get price alerts, and build your HSA shopping list — all in the free app.

← Back to all articles